Retapamulin Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 11, 2025.

Applies to retapamulin topical: topical application ointment.

Serious side effects of retapamulin topical

Along with its needed effects, retapamulin topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking retapamulin topical:

Less common side effects

• burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at site
• skin rash, encrusted, scaly, and oozing

Rare side effects

• blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, flaking of skin
• flushing, redness of skin
• itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, swelling of skin
• pain at site of application
• unusually warm skin

Other side effects of retapamulin topical

Some side effects of retapamulin topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common side effects

• diarrhea
• fever
• headache
• muscle aches
• nausea
• sore throat
• stuffy or runny nose
• unusual tiredness or weakness

For healthcare professionals

Applies to retapamulin topical: topical ointment.

Dermatologic adverse events

• Common (1% to 10%): Pruritus, eczema
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Erythema, contact dermatitis, impetigo, excoriation^[Ref]

Local

• Common (1% to 10%): Application site irritation, application site pruritus, application site pain
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Application site erythema
• Postmarketing reports: Application site burning sensation^[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

• Postmarketing reports: Hypersensitivity events including angioedema^[Ref]

Other

• Common (1% to 10%): Pyrexia
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Increased creatinine phosphokinase^[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

• Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, nausea
• Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Abdominal discomfort^[Ref]

Respiratory

• Common (1% to 10%): Nasopharyngitis^[Ref]

Nervous system

• Common (1% to 10%): Headache^[Ref]

Further information

Retapamulin topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer